Fort Frederick, Thirukoneswaram Kovil & Lovers Leap Trincomalee
In the heart of the bustling coastal town of Trincomalee there are three of the top things to see in the area: Fort Frederick, Thirukoneswaram Kovil & Lovers Leap. Exploring here is a great way to engulf yourself in Sri Lanka’s fascinating history, religion and fairy-tale stories.
You can take a stroll through the old Portuguese and Dutch Fort, appreciating the history and enjoying the shaded paths with spotted deer roaming around the grounds. Although the ruins of the Fort are basic, you can also walk through to Thirukoneswaram Kovil, a Hindu temple for Lord Shiva built on the Swami Rock cliff-face with views over the Indian Ocean. Looking out onto Lovers Leap, you’ll see a huge boulder with a fairy-tale story and rich coral at its base offering a great snorkelling spot.
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Where Is Fort Frederick & Thirukoneswaram Kovil?
Fort Frederick & Thirukoneswaram Kovil are sandwiched between the Indian Ocean and the busy town of Trincomalee, located on the east coast of Sri Lanka, right next to the white sand crescent Dutch Bay Beach. Some of Sri Lanka’s best snorkelling can be found along the east coast, especially the nearby Pigeon Island Marine National Park.
How To Get To Fort Frederick & Thirukoneswaram Kovil?
The best way to get to Fort Frederick & Thirukoneswaram Kovil is with your own scooter or tuktuk which you can most likely get from your homestay. We opted to rent a tuktuk and drive around Sri Lanka which gave us complete freedom rather than relying on transport. You can use the code KandM for 5% off your booking.
However, if you are a large group or family and don’t fancy driving the crazy Asian roads then we don’t blame you! You could hire a private driver for the day or even join a tour to Trincomalee from one of the busier towns nearby.
Fort Frederick Trincomalee Description
With a rich history, Fort Frederick (also known as Trincomalee Fort) was originally built by the Portuguese however was rebuilt and renamed by the Dutch in 1665. As well as enjoying the surrounding views of the fort, it's also possible to explore what is left of the ruins and bunkers that were once used to protect the Trincomalee Harbour.
With many spotted deer roaming around the Fort and shaded paths from the midday sun, you can enjoy a walk through the Fort which will bring you out to the cliffside Hindu temple.
Thirukoneswaram Kovil Trincomalee Description
This incredible Hindu temple offers views over the Indian Ocean, perched on the side of the Swami Rock, it is one of the Pancha Ishwarams, a series of sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva throughout Sri Lanka.
In order to enter you’ll need to respect the usual temple rules and cover your shoulders and knees as well as taking your shoes off. If visiting during the midday sun we recommend bringing socks due to the hot floor.
Thirukoneswaram Kovil is a perfect spot for enjoying sunrise or sunset over the town of Trincomalee, giving beautiful views over the ocean.
Lovers Leap Trincomalee Description
Just off the coast from the Hindu temple is Lovers Leap Trincomalee, a natural sight with a love story to tell. The story states the daughter of a Dutch Officer once jumped from the rock when the ship of her lover passed over the horizon, hence the name Lovers Leap.
Watch out for the many monkeys at the viewpoint around the temple, they will steal anything they can get their hands on!
This is a popular spot to visit via boat, with snorkelling and diving also possible.
How Much Is Entrance To Fort Frederick & Thirukoneswaram Kovil?
Free! Currently it is free for locals and tourists to venture through the Trincomalee Fort and explore the ruins, although due to it being a live military base some parts are limited. The Hindu temple is also free to explore.
Final Thoughts on Fort Frederick, Thirukoneswaram Kovil & Lovers Leap
Trincomalee is most known for its Dolphin & Blue Whale Watching however if you have a spare day to explore the town we recommend visiting Fort Frederick, Thirukoneswaram Kovil & Lovers Leap. Steeped with a rich history and fairy-tale stories, these sights offer a different side to Trinco Town. We recommend heading early to avoid the midday heat and make sure to cover up if you’re visiting the temple.
Just next door is also the beautiful Trincomalee (Dutch Bay) Beach, a crescent of white sand and blue water which is the perfect place to relax and cool off after exploring.
Essentials You Need For Sri Lanka
 | Surfing Accessories
Sri Lanka is a surfers paradise and it's also great for beginners with multiple surf spots being a sandy bottom. Don't forget a zinc sun cream and surf hat!
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 | LifeStraw Filtered Water Bottle
Allowing you to fill up water whenever and wherever with peace of mind plus you’re helping the environment!
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 | Binoculars For Safari Home to leopards, elephants and crocodiles having a pair of binoculars is a must to appreciate the wildlife Sri Lanka has to offer! |
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Top Tips For Travelling Sri Lanka
If you’re visiting Sri Lanka here are our top travel tips:
Rent a Tuk Tuk as Transport - This made our trip! Not only did we have complete freedom and flexibility it allowed us to have authentic relationships with locals. Use our code "KandM" for 5% off Tuktuk Rental
Stay in Homestays - Staying in local homestays meant we experienced authentic food and the local way of life. Everyone was extremely friendly and happy to help.
Don’t Forget the North - Many tourists stick to the south coast but if you have time explore places such as Anuradhapura, Trincomalee and Arugam bay!
Embrace The Chaos and get stuck in, the locals are friendly and love to help and share information about their home!
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Thank you for reading and enjoy your Sri Lankan adventure. Reach out to us over on Instagram @KateandMikesTravels. We always love to hear from people who read our blogs!
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